Emmet County sheriff offers safety tips for boaters

Emmet County Sheriff Pete Wallin is urging area residents to perform vessel safety checks before taking their boats out on the water this year."While most people are aware that they need to keep their automobiles in good running order, it sometimes doesn't occur to them to check their boats before the season gets under way," Wallin said in a news release. Wallin recommends boat owners have the Emmet County Sheriff's Office Marine Division or Coast Guard perform a free vessel safety check, according to the release. Vessel examiners will check the boat for mechanical safety as well as verifying the proper safety equipment is on board, and offer recommendations on how to best outfit vessels to comply with federal and state laws and regulations, according to the release."By taking the proper precautions now, you can prevent tragedy later," Wallin said in the release. "Take personal responsibility for your safety in order to enjoy a summer on the water."Following are some safety tips Wallin offered to boaters: -- Check the condition of life jackets, and have one properly fitting life jacket for every person on board. Specifically check for discoloration, dry rot, mildew, popped seams and tears in fabric. And ensure straps, buckles and zippers work.-- Make sure all equipment, including visual distress signals, sound-producing devices, navigation lights, bilge pumps, ventilation blowers and fire extinguishers, works properly.-- Keep updated navigation charts on board.